The Denver Broncos are gearing up for a pivotal season in 2026, with a roster brimming with talent. As the team prepares for training camp, some tough decisions loom regarding player development and roster management. Here's my take on the players the Broncos should invest in and those they should consider parting ways with.
Nurturing Young Talent
Jahdae Barron, CB: Despite a quiet rookie season, Barron has the potential to be a key piece in the Broncos' secondary. With Riley Moss and Ja'Quan McMillian's contracts expiring in 2027, Barron could step into a more prominent role. The front office should resist the urge to trade him unless an irresistible offer comes their way. Patience is key here, as the team can't afford to lose a promising young cornerback with the current salary commitments to Patrick Surtain II and Talanoa Hufanga.
Sai'vion Jones, DE: Jones is a young defensive end who deserves more playing time. At just 23, he has the potential for a significant second-year leap. The Broncos have a proven track record of developing defensive linemen, and keeping Jones in the mix is a wise strategy. With the right guidance, he could become a force to be reckoned with.
Marvin Mims Jr., WR: Mims is a unique talent who hasn't reached his full potential. His All-Pro return abilities, solid hands, and deep-threat capabilities make him a valuable asset. Increasing his snaps and involvement in the offense could unlock his true potential. Even with a crowded receiver room, Mims' skill set is too valuable to ignore.
Time for a Change
Drew Sanders, EDGE: Sanders' inability to stay healthy and his positional uncertainty make him a candidate for departure. With a stacked roster, the Broncos might not have the luxury of waiting for Sanders to find his footing. It's a tough call, but sometimes a fresh start benefits both the player and the team.
Levelle Bailey, ILB: Bailey's playing time has decreased significantly, and the addition of two rookies at his position signals a shift in the Broncos' plans. While he's shown flashes of potential, the team's focus seems to be on new talent. It's a classic case of a player being squeezed out by the competition.
JL Skinner, SAF: Special teams contributions aside, Skinner has struggled to earn consistent defensive snaps. With the addition of Tycen Anderson and Miles Scott, his role becomes even more uncertain. It's a numbers game, and sometimes players get caught in the crossfire of roster management.
What makes these decisions intriguing is the delicate balance between talent development and roster construction. The Broncos must decide whether to invest in potential or make tough cuts to maintain a competitive roster. Personally, I believe that a team's ability to identify and nurture young talent is a hallmark of success. However, in a salary-capped league, difficult choices are inevitable. This is the reality of modern-day NFL roster management, where the line between potential and production is often blurred.
